The Latest Factor Affecting Hiring Decisions? Social Media, of Course (But Not How You Think!)

It used to be that your social media profiles were something to keep private from potential employers (I mean, do they really need to know about that guy you're dating or your pal's 30th birthday bash?), but the tides have turned: Turns out recruiters wantcandidates with an active presence on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

Now, don’t get us wrong. What you're posting, of course, still matters quite a bit (aka, don't get after happy hour and live tweet it)—and influences hiring decisions, too. In fact, the annual Jobvite social recruiting survey shows 55 percent of recruiters having reconsidered a candidate as a result of their social media profiles alone. After all, with the increasingly competitive job market, your social presence can give you a much-needed edge to land the job that truly plays to your passions. Read: if you’re applying for a job in the fitness space, it helps to have your personal brand reflect your passion for a healthy lifestyle. So go on and hyperlapse that smoothie, girl.

After all, a whopping 93 percent of recruiters who responded to the survey will use social media to evaluate perspective candidates in 2014. And in a world of way too much over-sharing, it can pay to spotlight your love for X hobby or skill—especially if it means the difference between receiving that job offer or not. Talk about showing off a little #SELFMade action, am I right?!